Sony's GOTY Nominations and Wins From the Last Decade (2015 - 2024)

Patrick_Yu

Sony has maintained a strong presence in the gaming industry, producing high-quality titles that have consistently made their mark at The Game Awards. Over the past decade, Sony’s first-party titles have been recognized for their gameplay mechanics, storytelling, and technical achievements, earning numerous nominations and multiple Game of the Year (GOTY) victories. Here’s a breakdown of Sony’s GOTY nominees and winners from 2015 to 2024.  

2015: Bloodborne

Developed by FromSoftware and published by Sony, Bloodborne was a spiritual successor to the Dark Souls series, but with a faster, more aggressive combat system. Set in the gothic city of Yharnam, the game’s Lovecraftian horror themes and intricate world design captivated players. The Chalice Dungeons, procedurally generated levels, added replayability, while the game’s cryptic lore encouraged community-driven exploration and theory-crafting. Despite initial criticism for long loading times, patches and updates improved the experience, solidifying Bloodborne as a cult classic and one of the most influential action RPGs of the decade. A few years down the line, FromSoftware would go on to win two Game of the Year awards for Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice (2019) and Elden Ring (2022). 

p.s. Sony, please release a PC port for Bloodborne 

2016: Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End

Naughty Dog’s Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End concluded Nathan Drake’s story with a heartfelt narrative about family, legacy, and redemption. The game introduced new mechanics like the grappling hook and expanded stealth options, enhancing its already polished gameplay. Its stunning visuals, particularly in environments like Madagascar and Libertalia, set a new benchmark for graphical fidelity. The multiplayer mode also received praise for its balance and innovation, cementing Uncharted 4 as one of the best action-adventure games of all time.

2017: Horizon Zero Dawn

Guerrilla Games’ Horizon Zero Dawn was a bold departure from their Killzone series, offering a lush open world set in a post-apocalyptic future where robotic creatures roamed the Earth. Players took on the role of Aloy, a hunter and outcast, unraveling the mysteries of her world and its technological collapse. The game’s combat system, which emphasized strategic use of bows, traps, and elemental attacks against robotic foes, was widely praised. Its photo mode became a fan favorite, allowing players to capture the game’s breathtaking landscapes and dynamic encounters.

2018: God of War (Winner), Marvel’s Spider-Man

God of War (2018) marked a dramatic reinvention of the franchise, shifting from Greek to Norse mythology and introducing a more intimate, character-driven story about Kratos and his son, Atreus. The game’s single-shot camera technique, seamless world design, and visceral combat system earned universal acclaim. It also introduced RPG elements like skill trees and crafting, adding depth to the gameplay. God of War won multiple awards, including GOTY, and became one of the best-selling PlayStation 4 titles. 

Marvel’s Spider-Man, developed by Insomniac Games, delivered an exhilarating superhero experience with fluid web-swinging mechanics, a responsive combat system inspired by the Arkham series, and a heartfelt story that explored Peter Parker’s struggles as both a hero and a person. The game’s attention to detail, from its bustling New York City setting to its numerous Easter eggs, made it a standout title in the superhero genre.

2019: Death Stranding

Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding was a polarizing yet groundbreaking title that redefined the concept of connectivity in gaming. Players took on the role of Sam Porter Bridges, portrayed by Norman Reedus, tasked with reconnecting a fractured society by delivering supplies across a desolate, post-apocalyptic America. The game’s asynchronous multiplayer allowed players to leave helpful items and structures for others, fostering a sense of community. Its star-studded cast, including Norman Reedus, Mads Mikkelsen, and Léa Seydoux, delivered memorable performances, while its haunting soundtrack by Low Roar added to the game’s unique atmosphere.

2020: The Last of Us Part II (Winner), Ghost of Tsushima

The Last of Us Part II pushed the boundaries of storytelling in games with its morally complex narrative, non-linear structure, and unflinching portrayal of violence and revenge. The game’s technical achievements, including its stunning visuals, realistic animations, and immersive sound design, set a new standard for the industry. Its gameplay expanded on the original with improved stealth, crafting, and combat mechanics, making it a deeply engaging experience. Despite its divisive story, it won numerous awards, including GOTY. 

Ghost of Tsushima, developed by Sucker Punch Productions, offered a breathtaking open-world samurai adventure set during the Mongol invasion of Japan. The game’s emphasis on honor, exploration, and precise swordplay resonated with players. Its “Kurosawa Mode,” a black-and-white filter paying homage to classic samurai films, was a standout feature. The game’s multiplayer mode, Legends, added co-op gameplay with mythical elements, further extending its longevity.

2021: Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart showcased the power of the PlayStation 5 with its near-instant loading times, stunning visuals, and innovative use of the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback. The game introduced a new playable character, Rivet, and expanded on the series’ signature humor, fast-paced combat, and creative weaponry. Its dimension-hopping mechanics allowed for dynamic level design and gameplay, making it a standout title in the platformer genre.

2022: God of War Ragnarök, Horizon Forbidden West

God of War Ragnarök continued Kratos and Atreus’ journey through Norse mythology, offering a more expansive world, refined combat, and emotionally charged storytelling. The game introduced new weapons, abilities, and larger-scale boss battles, while also delving deeper into the relationship between its protagonists. Its narrative complexity and technical polish earned it widespread acclaim. 

Horizon Forbidden West expanded on its predecessor with a larger open world, new biomes, and improved traversal mechanics like the Shieldwing and Pullcaster. The game’s story explored Aloy’s quest to save her world from a new threat, while its combat introduced new machines and weapons, providing players with even more strategic options.

2023: Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 elevated the series with a darker, dual-protagonist storyline featuring Peter Parker and Miles Morales. The game introduced the symbiote suit, which added new combat abilities and narrative tension, as well as the fan-favorite villain Venom. Enhanced traversal mechanics, including web wings for gliding, and a larger, more detailed New York City made it one of the most immersive superhero games to date.

2024: Astro Bot (Winner)

Astro Bot took home the GOTY award in 2024, showcasing the PlayStation 5’s capabilities with its innovative platforming mechanics and charming design. The game celebrated PlayStation’s history with numerous references to iconic franchises, while its inventive level design and creative use of the DualSense controller made it a joy to play. Its vibrant visuals, tight controls, and heartfelt storytelling cemented it as one of the best platformers of its generation.

Conclusion 

Sony’s consistent delivery of high-quality, technically impressive, and emotionally resonant games has made it a dominant force in the gaming industry. With God of War (2018), The Last of Us Part II (2020), and Astro Bot (2024) earning top honors, Sony has proven its ability to innovate and set new benchmarks in interactive entertainment. As PlayStation continues to evolve, its first-party titles will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of gaming excellence.

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